The Morane Saulnier 406 was France’s most numerous front line fighter during the Battle of France. Turkey acquired 45 of these aeroplanes, some of which had originally been ordered for the Polish Air Force.

Design of the Morane Saulnier 406 began in 1934 and the first one flew in August 1935.

Development continued slowly until March 1938 when 1000 MS.406s were ordered, and the first production aircraft flew on 29 January 1939.

During the Battle of France they were seriously outclassed by German fighters such as the Messerchmitt Bf109E

Prior to World War II Poland ordered 160 MS 406s. No deliveries were completed before Poland was overrun at the beginning of the war but some were taken over for the Turkish air force.

In all Turkey received 45 MS 406s, at least 30 of them intended for Poland.

This model represents a Morane Saulnier 406 serving with the Turkish Air Force in 1940.

Hobby Boss 1/72 kit with Esci and other decals completed by Leigh Edmonds in July 2013.